Key Takeaways:
– The Los Angeles Lakers could recruit NBA All-Star point guard Chris Paul if D’Angelo Russell signs elsewhere.
– Russell is raising interest from the Orlando Magic, Russell can opt for a free agency by declining his player option worth $18.7 million for the 2024-25 season.
– Paul averaged under 30 minutes for the first time in his career this past season.
– Paul previously nearly joined the Lakers in 2011, but the trade was vetoed by NBA Commissioner David Stern.
Potential Russell Departure Spurs Lakers Interest in Paul
Rumors are flying around that the Los Angeles Lakers might be looking at experienced 12-time NBA All-Star point guard Chris Paul as a suitable candidate to fill the hole if D’Angelo Russell signs elsewhere. Eric Pincus, a salary cap expert from the Bleacher Report, earlier proposed Chris Paul as a viable option.
Paul’s Warriors Exit Could Mark his Lakers Entry
With the Golden State Warriors likely to not extend Paul’s $30 million salary by June 28, Paul’s entrance into the free-agent market seems imminent. Pincus stated on Buha’s Block that there’s a good chance Paul might either be traded or cut by the Warriors. With a well-known strong bond with Lakers’s player LeBron James, Paul’s signing with the Lakers could a likely scenario. Pincus emphasized that Paul’s contract with Lakers doesn’t necessarily need to be pricey, hinting at a potential negotiation on that front.
Paul’s Turbulent Season Might Lead to A Full-Circle Moment
If Paul does join the Lakers, it will be a poetic closure. He almost united with the franchise in 2011 via a trade deal, vetoed by then NBA Commissioner David Stern. Paul then was traded to the Lakers’ local competitor, the Los Angeles Clippers. The 39-year-old, despite having a hard season this year, the worst in his career, where he had to shift to a bench role after 18 starting seasons, still managed to produce commendable numbers for the Warriors.
Magic Showing Interest in Russell
As Russell’s departure looms large, the Lakers would have to look for a replacement with only a mid-level exception at hand. According to sports journalist Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Orlando Magic is showing interest in signing Russell if he becomes available in the free agency. They hope he can bolster their offense and cater to their need for a point guard who enhances their floor spread for their dynamic pair of All-Star forward Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
Despite the possibility of signing elsewhere, Russell commented in a March 27th interview with Hoopshype’s Michael Scotto about his wish to stay with the Lakers. He expressed his plan to take full advantage of his position with the team and his optimism about a hopeful outcome when the time comes.
By adding Paul to the mix, the Lakers could potentially retain their formidable edge in the NBA. It seems an anxious wait for fans to see if this off-season will see this shift in the Lakers’ roster.
Other credible free-agent market options include veterans Kyle Lowry, Markell Fultz, Tyus Jones, and Monte Morris if the deal with Paul doesn’t work out.